Empowering Students Through Holistic Mentorship

Last month, our team made a visit to St. Mark Secondary School in Kabwohe, Sheema District. This visit provided an opportunity for powerful discussions, eye-opening insights and a deep commitment to supporting the youth. The goal of the outreach was to offer mentorship, guidance and counselling on personal development, mental health and career readiness, areas which are often neglected in traditional academic settings.

St. Mark SSS Kabwohe, like many schools across Uganda, faces significant challenges when it comes to supporting students beyond academics. While academic performance is emphasized, students often navigate personal and societal challenges that require attention. From dealing with family trauma, battling addictions and struggling with peer relationships to addressing neglect at home, these students face much more than their schoolwork.

Our outreach sought to address these challenges by providing a safe space for students to voice their concerns and learn practical life skills. We engaged them in meaningful conversations around issues they confront daily, empowering them with the confidence and knowledge needed to navigate their circumstances.

Students spoke of the emotional scars from family conflicts, particularly after parental separation, which made it difficult to build trusting relationships with their peers. We addressed these concerns through a session on resilience, teaching students coping strategies such as journaling, seeking support from trusted adults and developing self-care routines. We emphasized that their education could be a path to a better future, regardless of current family dynamics.

We engaged the students in an open dialogue on the dangers of addiction, using real-life examples to illustrate its impact on personal health, relationships, and academic ambitions. The importance of making personal choices aligned with their goals and values, rather than succumbing to peer pressure was highlighted. Practical tools, like saying no assertively and finding like-minded friends, were discussed. We also encouraged students to participate in extracurricular activities to reduce idle time, which often leads to risky behaviour.

Many shared that they found it hard to trust others due to past experiences of betrayal or bullying. We used this as an opportunity to discuss building healthy relationships based on trust, respect and shared values. The session emphasized empathy, effective communication and setting boundaries in friendships.

Also, a recurring concern among the students was the pressure they felt about future career choices. Many were uncertain about which path to pursue, often feeling pressured by their parents to take up specific careers. Our outreach dedicated a significant portion to career guidance, encouraging students to align their career choices with their passions and strengths. We also shared real-world insights, offering students a clearer understanding of potential career paths.

Our visit to St. Mark SSS Kabwohe was a reminder of the potential within Uganda’s youth. The students are not only dealing with academic pressures but also with deep emotional and social challenges. By offering mentorship, career guidance and emotional support, we believe we have equipped them with the tools needed to face the world ahead. We left Kabwohe inspired by their resilience and committed to continuing our efforts in supporting these young minds towards a brighter future.